Online Reporter
Sikhumbuzo Moyo
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THOUSANDS of residents converged at an open space in Cowdray Park yesterday for the commissioning of the Presidential Borehole Scheme, a Government initiative aimed at improving access to clean and safe water in communities across the country.
The commissioning ceremony was led by Presidential adviser Dr Paul Tungwarara and attracted residents from across the suburb, church groups and community leaders.
A large contingent of Johane Masowe church members attended the event, while some residents were seen carrying placards expressing support for the Constitutional Amendment No. 3 Bill (CAB3).
Several dignitaries attended the ceremony, including Cowdray Park legislator Arthur Mujeyi.
The Presidential Borehole Scheme is part of a nationwide programme launched by Government in 2022 to address water shortages and improve access to potable water. The initiative targets the installation of 35 000 solar-powered boreholes in rural communities and an additional 1 000 boreholes in urban areas and constituencies throughout Zimbabwe.
Ahead of the commissioning ceremony, Dr Tungwarara said the programme was a historic and non-partisan intervention designed to ensure that communities have reliable access to clean water.
Posting on his X account, he said the initiative is anchored on the principle that access to clean water is a fundamental right and supports Government’s development philosophy of leaving no one and no place behind.
Operating under the theme “Mvura Kuvanhu, Amanzi Ebantwini,” the scheme seeks to strengthen water security while promoting community development through sustainable water infrastructure.
The Cowdray Park project is expected to ease water challenges in one of Bulawayo’s fastest-growing suburbs, where residents have long grappled with erratic water supplies.
The commissioning marks another milestone in Government’s efforts to improve access to clean water, enhance public health and support socio-economic development in communities across the country.
derick.khumalo